Pregnancy Signs & Symptoms, Week by Week Pregnancy Guide

Whether or not you can still see them, your feet are down there, going through this pregnancy with you.

You may have noticed a change in your shoe size, especially if you are nearing the second half of your pregnancy.

That is because the same hormones which allow your pelvic bones to move to accommodate your baby also allow the bones in your feet to spread out a bit.

Most women gain about a half of a shoe size while pregnant; for some women, this increase in size is permanent. [ankle and foot edema]

You may also notice that your feet have been swelling. This is partially due to gravity and the increased amount of fluids in your body.

Your growing uterus is also putting pressure on the lower half of your body, affecting circulation. You are also probably heavier than you were before pregnancy and your feet are carrying additional weight.

To care for your feet, be sure to elevate them whenever you can. If you must stand, be sure to take regular breaks to sit down. Exercise your feet by pointing your toes first away from you and then up toward the ceiling.

Draw imaginary circles with your toes, which also relax your ankles. A cool water soak can help relieve swelling and discomfort.

During pregnancy you should wear shoes that have lower heels to accommodate your changing sense of balance. Slip on shoes is a good idea, because it will become increasingly difficult to reach your feet.

One of the most wonderful things you can do for your pregnant feet is massaging them gently with cooling peppermint lotion. Not only does this cool your feet and smell wonderful, but it helps stimulate circulation as well.